After what had already been a busy day there remained one
more important event; to represent the Company at the annual Carols by
Candlelight at St Mary-at-Hill. It was a privilege therefore to accompany the
Mistress and several other members of the Court to take part in this wonderful
service.
Led as ever by Rose Hudson-Wilkins (now an Honorary Freeman
of the Company! – see Blog No 67) the service was a collection of favourite
carols interspersed with readings from the Old Testament and the Gospels, all
telling the story of the birth of the Lord Jesus in Bethlehem. One has heard
theses stories so many times before but one is always moved by them and the in
the simple setting of a church by candlelight it was doubly so. It is the central part of Christmas and the
most important.
The St Marys’ organ and its choir (three baritones; three
sopranos) led the singing which was joyous. As Master I was invited to read the
fifth lesson (Matthew Chapter 2 v. 1-11) which tells of the wise men and the
star. The sermon was very thought provoking and in it the Rev’d Rose urged us
to shun the trappings of a commercialised Christmas and to focus on its true
meaning of love and caring. It was a powerful message and so passionately
delivered.
After a moment of pray and reflection the final carol of Hark! the Herald Angels Sing rang out
and the service was over. Mince pies followed and one felt that Christmas had
well and truly started!
A wonderful way to end the formal Livery events of 2018.
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